The “Protestant work ethic” has historically been cited as one of America’s competitive advantages. We supposedly outwork our counterparts and increase productivity.

However, it seems we often hold on to outdated ideas of what it means to be productive workers, whether it’s limiting vacations, working long hours, or avoiding naps.

Wednesday morning on AirTalk, we debated caffeine versus napping for increasing productivity and personal health. Our researcher from UCSD declared napping the winner, despite our culture’s stigmatization of taking a midday snooze. Our professor from UCLA thought the benefits of caffeine were clear for both ability to focus and health benefits.

Do you think we would benefit in health and productivity if workplaces set aside a half-hour daily for those workers who want to nap to do so? Which works best for you – a java or energy drink jolt, or a nap?